Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023
Section 296
Obscene acts and songs
Whoever, to the annoyance of others,—
(a) does any obscene act in any public place; or
(b) sings, recites or utters any obscene song, ballad or words, in or near any public place, shall be punished with imprisonment of either description for a term which may extend to three months, or with fine which may extend to one thousand rupees, or with both.
Why this exists
This provision protects public decency and the comfort of people in shared public spaces from indecent behaviour or language done specifically to annoy or offend others.
Common misconceptions
- Myth: Only actual physical obscene acts are covered, not words or songs.
Fact: The section covers both obscene acts and obscene words, songs, or sounds said in or near a public place to annoy others.